FORTH announces the 34rt call for the Award for Excellence in Academic Teaching in memory of Basilis Xanthopoulos and Stephanos Pnevmatikos.

FORTH President, Prof. Vassilis Charmandaris mentioned in this regard: ‘FORTH, in honor of the memory, contribution, and sacrifice of Basilis Xanthopoulos and Stephanos Pnevmatikos—professors at the University of Crete and FORTH members who were tragically murdered in Heraklion on November 27, 1990, while co-teaching an advanced seminar—established the Award for Excellence in Academic Teaching. Since 1991, this award has been presented annually as a tribute to exceptional university educators, selected by a committee representing diverse academic disciplines.’

For 2025, proposals that fall under the thematic cycle of Social Sciences and Humanities are accepted.

The closing date is Friday 18 July 2025.

The President of the Award Committee, Prof. Maria Efthymiou emphasises the definition of excellence in academic teaching as described in the award statute:

‘Excellent academic teaching encompasses all activities that broaden students' scientific horizons, inspire and guide them in research, and instill in them the values of scientific integrity and the selfless pursuit of truth.’

The award can be given to faculty members of Greek universities, specialist scientists and other teaching staff, members of research centers with university teaching work, as well as those who previously had any of the above qualities (e.g., emeritus professors). The award, however, is only given to living people.

Proposals are submitted by one or more people (e.g., teachers or students) who are familiar with the teaching work of those proposed. The proposal should preferably include a letter justifying why the nominee is eligible to receive the particular award and be accompanied by a curriculum vitae.

Award proposal submission information: https://www.forth.gr/en/content/Basilis-Xanthopoulos--Stephanos-Pnevmatikos-Award.60/